Parting: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used in a more formal or poetic context when referring to the act of leaving or saying goodbye, especially when it is emotional or significant.

• Their parting was filled with tears and tight embraces.
• The parting words of the mentor stayed with her for years.

Farewell is typically a formal way to say goodbye, often used in speeches or written form, and can imply a long-term or permanent departure.

• He gave an emotional farewell speech on his last day at work.
• They held a farewell party for their friend moving abroad.

Separation is often used to describe a more formal or longer-term parting, such as a temporary or permanent division between people or groups.

• The separation of the two teams had a significant impact on the project.
• Their separation was difficult, but they knew it was necessary.

Goodbye is a common and casual way to express that you are leaving or ending a conversation. It can be used in almost any situation, both formal and informal.

• I have to go now, goodbye.
• She waved goodbye as the train departed.

Used when referring to an emotional or physical separation between people, often temporary. It can also refer to the line created when combing hair.

• The parting was difficult, but they knew they would meet again soon.
• She adjusted her parting to the left side for a different look.

Specific to the line where the hair starts on the forehead or a very thin crack.

• He noticed his hairline was beginning to recede.
• A hairline crack appeared in the vase after it fell.

Often used in contexts where something is split into distinct parts, such as in mathematics, groups, or organizations. It can sometimes imply disagreement or conflict.

• The division of the company into two separate entities was a strategic move.
• There was a division among the team members over the new policy.

Used when referring to the act of separating or the state of being separated. It can be physical, emotional, or legal, such as in relationships.

• The separation of the parents was hard on the children.
• The separation of recyclables from general waste is important for the environment.

Used when someone is leaving or separating from someone else, often infused with a sense of temporary or permanent goodbye.

• Their parting was emotional; they promised to write letters

Given to someone who is leaving, usually to show appreciation or as a token of good wishes for the future. Often used in professional or personal settings.

• We bought Jane a farewell gift to thank her for her years of hard work

A token brought back from a trip or event to remind one of the experience, often more commercial or less sentimental than a keepsake.

• He brought back a souvenir from his vacation in Paris

A small item kept in memory of someone or something, often sentimental. It can be given on various occasions, not necessarily when parting.

• She gave him a locket as a keepsake to remember their time together